Activist Dr Gina Shangkham no more
Source: Chronicle News Service / NNN

Imphal/Senapati, January 02 2025: Dr Gina Shangkham, one of the tallest activists of the North East India region, passed away at her Kapaam village residence in Chandel district early Thursday morning.

Dr Gina was a champion and pioneering personage in the field of education, cultural heritage, human rights and gender empowerment.

Her funeral service has been tentatively scheduled for 11 am at her native village on January 3 .

Following the passing of Dr Gina, many organisations, including NSCN-IM, Naga organisations, Moyon tribe based bodies and others have condoled.

The apex body of Moyon tribe, Bujuur Aanchung Puh, (BAP) along with Bujuur Shanuw Ruwrkheh (BSR) and Thiimziih Teen Bujuur Ruwrkheh (TTBR), expressed their sorrow at the demise Dr Gina Shangkham.

Activist Dr Gina Shangkham no more

Dr Gina had served across diverse organisations including Naga Women Union (NWU), Naga People's Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR), Indigenous Women Forum North East India, Bujuur Shanuw Ruwrkheh, Thiimziih Teen Bujuur Ruwrkheh and Bujuur Aanchung Puh, advocating for the rights and welfare of the Nagas and indigenous communities of the region.

Notably, Dr Gina was the first woman from Chandel district to earna PhD, making her a beacon of inspiration for future generations.

She served as a teacher at South East Manipur College Manipur for 30 years and as a researcher at the Centre for Tribal Studies, Manipur University (1990-1995).Her contributions in research and development of cultural heritage have greatly benefitted across communities, the Moyon bodies said.

Dr Gina's social dedication began with the Thiimziih Teen Bujuur Ruwrkheh as the general secretary in 1982.She went on to serve the Bujuur Shanuw Ruwrkheh as the general secretary and later on the president.

Dr Gina became the founding president of NWU in 1994, a position she held with distinction till 2004.She also served as the secretary general of NPMHR from 2011 to 2014, rendered time, energy, knowledge and experiences for the development of the Moyons till her last breath.

In its condolence message, NSCN-IM said it was "profoundly saddened" by the passing of Dr Gina Shangkham.

"She was a woman who loved Naga history and their political rights.

Her contributions to the cause of the Naga people were extraordinary and will always be remembered," it said.

Dr Gina was the recipient of the prestigious "Laarchangnumn Award" in recognition of her self-less service for the welfare of various tribal communities.

"Our thought and prayers go to her family members.

We express deep condolences to her family members and close friends.

We salute her for what she is for the Naga people.

Her legacy of love and respect for the Naga people will continue to live in the hearts of the Nagas for many years to come," said the NSCN-IM.

Naga Peoples' Organisation (NPO), and Poumai Naga Tsiidoumai Me (PNTM), also expressed profound grief over her untimely demise, remembering her as a visionary and trailblazer for justice, equality, and women's empowerment.

She was celebrated as the first woman from her tribe to earn a Doctorate and received the prestigious 'Lasrchangnuw Award' for her transformative contributions to tribal welfare and women's rights.

Dr Shangkham's leadership in establishing NWU significantly advanced the socio-political empowerment of women in the Naga community.

Her life's work, characterised by indomitable spirit and selfless dedication, remains an inspirational beacon.

The Naga community mourned her loss while honouring her unparalleled contributions to justice and social progress.